Grouplove @ The Corner(04/01/2012)

Fri 13th Jan, 2012 in Gig Reviews

Wherever it may have originated, the idea that a band have performed well if they sound “just like their CD” is rendered totally ludicrous by Grouplove. It’s probably always been farcical, but given its widespread and uncorrected use thus far, the Californian band’s Melbourne performance seemed a good opportunity to praise musicians who give entirely to an audience, and help redefine a good gig.

Having played Splendour in the Grass in 2011 and returned fresh from the Falls Festivals in both Lorne and Marion Bay, Grouplove are no strangers to Australia, and have gathered a strong following in less than 12 months, reiterated by the full house that appeared at The Corner Hotel on Wednesday night.

Warming up the audience were Seattle 6-piece The Head and The Heart, who also performed at both Falls Festivals over New Years. Due to play Coachella 2012, their feel-good air was contagious, and it was refreshing to see how much fun the band had on stage together. That said, THATH were definitely a warm up for their west-coast counterparts.

Playing songs from their debut album, Never Trust a Happy Song, Grouplove seemed eager to please with tracks like Lovely Cup and Itchin’ on a Photograph brought out early. Unsurprisingly their biggest hits, Tongue Tied and Colours were saved until the end and played as encore numbers.

Despite being somewhat hidden by the performers out front, drummer Ryan Rabin was most worthy of commendation, given his multiple drum solos and rhythmic perfection throughout the set. By the applause and enthusiasm exhibited by punters closest the stage, it was clear that solos from bassist Sean Gadd were also appreciated…though it’s fair to say that enthusiasm rarely wavered from that contingent.

Sprawled across the stage, it was – at least visually – hard to imagine how the 5-piece ever came to be, or in fact, how they ever crossed paths at all. But in spite of their haphazard look, there was a beautiful unity shared by Grouplove at The Corner, and like their supports, a sense that they were genuinely having fun performing.

Perhaps most striking however, was lead guitarist and vocalist Christian Zucconi, who, in a two-tone robe (which it turns out is recurring apparel) and a toothy grin, bore an uncanny resemblance to Mick Jagger. He also had, well, at least some of the moves like Jagger and gave a very energetic and animated performance.

Later, Betty’s a Bombshell proved that it was not only Hannah Hooper’s vocal range that was impressive, as her male counterpart consistently struck all the high notes and harmonies. Guitarist and backing vocalist Andrew Wessen also deserves credit here.

Other high-rotation tracks such as Naked Kids and Chloe were executed during the middle of the set; readily seized upon and sung by the crowd. More than being merely re-treaded though, songs took new shape with solos, audience contribution, bettered harmonies and lifted vocals, giving the sense that punters were privy to a truly unique and organic show. All in all, with a proud bow and curtains closed, Grouplove were not just like their CD; they were better.